Find NDIS Support Coordinators - Who's Right For You?

Selecting the appropriate Support Coordinator can significantly impact your life. If you have NDIS funding for a Support Coordinator, it can greatly assist you in optimising your NDIS plan and utilising your resources to the fullest extent.

Similar to the process of finding the right Support Worker, identifying the suitable Support Coordinator can be a challenging task. Your unique preferences and requirements are essential factors to consider. There's a variety of options available, including independent coordinators, those affiliated with organisations specialising in support coordination, and others associated with larger service providers.

To aid you in finding the ideal Support Coordinator to align with your objectives, we've provided some guidance on key factors to watch for and important questions to pose during the selection process.

What Is NDIS Support Coordination?

There are three tiers of Support Coordination, each offering distinct levels of assistance:

• Support Connection: This involves short-term aid aimed at helping you identify suitable providers for your requirements. You remain in charge of coordinating the support and selecting your providers, with the Support Connection offering initial guidance.
• Support Coordination: This is a longer-term support approach. It assists you in acquiring the skills needed to comprehend, implement, and manage your NDIS plan. Not only does it connect you with service providers, but it also takes on the role of coordinating all your support services. The aim is to enhance your capacity for independent living.  
• Specialist Support Coordination: This level provides advanced specialist support for more intricate situations. It is particularly valuable if you require assistance from specialised health professionals such as Occupational Therapists or Social Workers.

How Can A Support Coordinator Help?

• Explain your NDIS plan and outline available funding and services.
• Arrange necessary assessments for specific funding eligibility.
• Collaborate on planning the allocation of your funding.
• Assist in budget management to prevent overspending.
• Facilitate the discovery of required services and connection with Support Workers.
• Support in creating online accounts, such as on platforms like Kynd.
• Coordinate your service providers to ensure goal achievement.
• Aid in drafting service agreements and managing bookings.
• Update the NDIS on your progress for reviews and reports.
• Assist in negotiations for additional funding if needed to meet your goals.

How To Find NDIS Support Coordinators

Finding an NDIS Support Coordinator whom you trust and with whom you genuinely feel at ease is paramount. They should possess the requisite skills and expertise to provide you with the necessary support. When conducting your research, consider the following factors.

They Put You First

A quality support coordinator values your decisions and collaborates with you to achieve the optimal results aligned with your goals.

They’re Flexible

They acknowledge that circumstances can evolve and are willing to adapt your support priorities accordingly. They exhibit creative problem-solving skills and can swiftly address any challenges that may emerge.

They're Not Conflicted

Be cautious! Verify that your Support Coordinator doesn't have any 'conflicts of interest' when recommending Support Workers or Service Providers. Some Participants have encountered problems when Support Coordinators steer them towards utilising Support Workers solely from the same organisation.

They’re Reliable

Your Support Coordinator should be dependable and accessible when you require assistance. They excel in communication and regularly provide updates on policy modifications and potential service providers that could be of interest to you.

They’re Well-Informed

They possess a comprehensive education in various disability types and possess a profound comprehension of the obstacles encountered by individuals living with disabilities. They also exhibit a solid grasp of the local service provider landscape and can offer suitable recommendations.

Find a Disability Support Coordinator

What Questions To Ask?

When seeking a Support Coordinator to implement your NDIS Plan, it's crucial to pose the right inquiries. Take your time, if possible, to determine the best fit for your requirements. Finding the right NDIS Support Coordinator may not always be straightforward, but securing one who genuinely supports your personalised goals is vital.

• Have you previously worked with individuals in similar circumstances to mine?
• Can you share experiences with disabilities, goals, interests, age, and support needs that are akin to mine?
• How have you assisted others in achieving their NDIS plan goals?
• Do you possess specialised knowledge that could be beneficial in my situation, such as language or cultural proficiency, a background in mental health, or a strong understanding of the primary school system?
• Do you have any initial strategies for achieving my goals?
• What types of support can you offer me?
• What are your fees, and how will you bill me? Can I approve your invoices?
• What will be your communication approach with me?
• How do you define success in my case?
• What motivated you to become a Support Coordinator?
• Are you open to assisting me in finding and engaging independent Support Workers?
• Are you a registered or unregistered NDIS Support Coordinator?
• Does you or your organisation provide direct support services as well?
• How will you ensure there are no conflicts of interest in your recommendations?
• What is your network like within the local area/region where I reside?
• What is the notice period for terminating our service agreement?

Where Can I Find A Support Coordinator?

There are various methods for identifying NDIS Support Coordinators to interview, such as:

• Conducting online searches, e.g., 'find a support coordinator.'
• Seeking recommendations from Facebook Groups.
• Inquiring with the Kynd Team for suggestions within your area.
• Searching for 'independent Support Coordinators.'
• Accessing the NDIS MyPlace Portal for additional links.

Selecting the right Support Coordinator can significantly impact your quality of life. It's crucial to invest time in research, ask thorough questions upfront, and ensure you find the most suitable individual. They can become your partner in the process of identifying and interviewing Support Workers, as well as optimising your NDIS support.